Severe floods and storms have struck Benin, impacting 349,580 people, including 5,000 displaced, and resulting in 224 deaths. The disasters have damaged 557 schools, 50 health centers, and 281 bridges, with 24,292 hectares of crops destroyed and 16,847 heads of livestock lost. The situation calls for urgent attention and coordinated response from authorities and stakeholders.
The Beninese government, led by Minister Delegate for Interior and Public Security Djibril Mama Cissé, convened a meeting with stakeholders to address the crisis. The government aims to shift from reaction to prevention and anticipation, emphasizing the need for a culture of preparedness and resilience. The meeting focused on enhancing early warning systems, mapping vulnerable areas, and integrating resilience into public policies.
According to Abdel Aziz Bio Djibril, Director-General of the Beninese Civil Protection Agency (ABPC), the damages and losses are estimated at nearly 73 billion F Cfa, with needs for recovery estimated at 391 billion F Cfa. The agency has been working to mitigate the effects of the disasters through forecasts, crisis management, and coordination with local authorities and humanitarian organizations.
The government and stakeholders are working to address the root causes of the disasters, including poor urban planning and land use. The ABPC chief emphasized the need to respect urban planning schemes and relocate populations and infrastructure from high-risk areas. Recommendations include constructing retention basins, reinforcing protection works, and rehabilitating damaged infrastructure.
To effectively respond to the crisis, the government requires over 290 billion F Cfa in funding to support climate change adaptation and resilience programs. The ABPC is working to strengthen its capacity for anticipation and coordination, and to better anchor prevention in local communities. The goal is to reduce the risks associated with climate-related disasters.
The floods and storms have had a significant impact on the country's infrastructure, with many roads, bridges, and buildings damaged or destroyed. The situation has also affected the agricultural sector, with many hectares of crops destroyed and livestock lost. The government and stakeholders are working to provide support to affected communities and to restore essential services.
The Beninese government faces the challenge of balancing disaster response with long-term prevention and preparedness measures. The goal is to build resilience and reduce the risks associated with climate-related disasters. By working together, the government and stakeholders aim to mitigate the effects of future disasters and promote sustainable development.
Key points
- Over 350,000 people affected by floods and storms in Benin.
- Damages and losses estimated at nearly 73 billion F Cfa.
- Government seeks over 290 billion F Cfa in funding for climate change adaptation and resilience programs.
